Baramulla, Feb 28: As the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team ended a 67-year wait to lift the Ranji Trophy on Saturday, celebrations erupted across the Union Territory. But in the nondescript village of Sheeri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the victory carried a deeply personal resonance. This is the home of Aqib Nabi, the seamer whose crucial performances helped script history, and where the beat of the dhol has transformed the narrow lanes into a festive stage.
For Ghulam Nabi Dar, Aqib’s father, the triumph is not just about silverware; it is a validation of a son’s unwavering dream nurtured in a village without a cricket ground. In an exclusive conversation with Kashmir Convener Dar expressed his hope that his son’s journey is far from over.
“I am very happy,” Dar told Kashmir Convener. “I feel that after this achievement, the next step is to see him wear the Indian jersey and play for the country.”
Aqib, who was also picked up for the IPL, played a pivotal role in the Ranji Trophy campaign. His father was quick to deflect praise to the entire unit. “It wasn’t just one player, the whole team of 15 worked hard. No team wants to lose, every player wants to win for their state. Our boys did that,” Dar said.
He extended his gratitude to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their overwhelming support. “Everyone was praying that this time the trophy would come home. Allah heard those prayers,” he said, also acknowledging the congratulations extended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who attended the match, and other political and social leaders.
He pointed out that Aqib, who learned the game on a tennis ball, had to travel to nearby Baramulla town for proper practice.
“Aqib comes from a small village where there is no cricket ground. He used to go to Baramulla for practice. He started with tennis ball there before moving to the proper turf,” Dar recalled.
This lack of local facilities prompted a heartfelt appeal from the father of the Ranji hero. He stressed the need for basic sporting infrastructure to channel the energy of the youth in the right direction.
“Every village should have a cricket ground. It is important for children to have a place to play. It keeps them healthy and away from bad things,” Dar said.
Dar urged them to support their children’s ambitions rather than impose their own. “Do not force your child into something they don’t want. If they are inclined towards a good field—whether studies or sports—let them pursue it. First, they should be educated, but if they want to play, support them. Don’t lock them in a room just to study and make them a doctor. Let them follow their passion.”
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